A rug is just a rug. Right? Not really. A rug is not just a large piece of cloth spread out on the floor. Whether it is affordable or expensive, a rug or a carpet lends a significant addition to your home’s interior decor. It is the first thing you notice whenever you step into the house. A rug can be used to cover the entire floor space, or can be used as a focal feature for communal spaces such as a living room or a dining room.
But there are rugs that use the most expensive fabrics and materials as well as feature intricate designs and patterns. And most fancy rugs — particularly Persian and Oriental — are painstakingly handmade too. Because of this, rugs are seen as more than just a decorative piece of clothing. Many people even consider them as a wise investment. Some can cost over a million dollars (in US currency)! Here are some of the most expensive rugs in the world.
Could you afford any of these carpets in this list? Check them out!
Fereghan Sarouk is a Persian rug that costs an arm and a leg — at $74,500 to be exact! This carpet is a good example of a Sarouk rug, which a lot of collectors really cherish. It features bold colors overall and has a very expressive field, with an loose hour-glass design and three elements known as “medallions.”
Another famous Persian rug, the Isfahan Carpet is currently the fifth most expensive rug in the world. It is one of the most esteemed items from the rug collection of the late tobacco heiress Doris Duke. The rug was sold to Christie’s auction to the tune of $116,500
Mohstashem Kashan Carpet was woven during the 19th century, and its intricate design is another proof of unrivaled Persian craftsmanship. The price is $92,500, falling under the $100K range but still it is expensive.
The Portuguese Armorial became the eighth priciest rug in the world when it was sold to the tune of $80,500. This square-shaped rug features an intricate border with wavering patterns that surround the square medallion in the middle.
The Silk Isfahan Rug is truly an immense beauty and also commands an immense price — it is the most expensive rug in the world when it was sold at Christie’s for $4.5 million in 2008.
The Tabriz Carpet emphasizes the traditional Mahi field patterns which are repeated all over again, incorporating the “turtle shell” design details and colors. Luckily, it is still in great condition. The Tabriz Carpet has a price tag of $68,500.
This 17th-century Ushak or (Oushak) carpet has striking patterns, a rich design, and bold colors set against a contrasting background. This carpet is utterly exceptional and truly a standout among the other carpets. It was sold at Christie’s auction for $158,500.
This certain variant of Ziegler Mahal Carpet is the second most expensive rug in the world, fetching $182,500. Its large size, the best thread colors, and its overall great condition have made this version of Ziegler one of the most sought-after carpets by collectors.
This Ziegler Mahal Carpet is a square-cut Persian rug that features a border with elaborate floral patterns and a muted color palette. This old carpet has suffered wear and tear but because of its ample size, intricate designs, and soft colors it hasn’t depreciated in value. In fact, this Ziegler Mahal Carpet comes in as the third most expensive rug which fetched a total of $170,000 at Sotheby’s auction house.
Another variant of Ziegler Mahal, this carpet fetched $98,500 at the Sotheby’s auction. It is square and generously-sized, and features elaborate floral patterns and unmistakably regal colors.